Let’s face it—shopping for an AK is like trying to pick your favorite pizza topping. Sure, they’re all tasty, but some are just built better. The ZPAP M70, the Serbian-born star of the AK world, has gained quite a reputation. But how does it stack up against other tried-and-true AK variants like the Romanian WASR-10, Russian Saiga, Bulgarian Arsenal, or Chinese Norinco?
Whether you’re an AK aficionado or just getting your feet wet in the world of 7.62×39, we’re digging into what makes the ZPAP M70 stand out—or not. Get comfy. We’re about to get Kalashnikov nerdy.
The ZPAP M70: An Overview
Before diving into the battle royale, let’s get to know the ZPAP M70 a little better.
Zastava Arms USA brings us this Serbian powerhouse, modeled after the Yugoslavian M70 military rifle. It’s not a parts kit gun—it’s brand-new, factory-made, and comes with a cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel. Yes, we said chrome-lined. That alone should get you excited if you like to shoot often without your barrel looking like a charcoal briquette afterward.
You’ll find two main versions of the ZPAP M70 worth checking out:
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ZPAPM70 ZR7762SRA: Traditional wooden furniture for that classic battlefield vibe.
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ZPAPM70 ZR7762BHM: Modern furniture, adjustable stock—perfect if you want a little tacticool with your 7.62.
Both versions come with a bulged front trunnion and thicker 1.5mm receiver, meaning they’re beefier and built for hard use. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s see how it measures up against its AK cousins.
ZPAP M70 vs WASR-10: A Romanian Rumble
The WASR-10 is the budget AK that made a name for itself simply by showing up and working. It may lack refinement, but it usually shoots just fine. That said, it’s like the rental car of AKs—it’ll get you there, but you won’t brag about it.
Why ZPAP M70 Wins:
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Better build quality. Seriously, the fit and finish feel like you paid for them.
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No canted sights or wobbly mag wells—a WASR’s infamous Achilles heels.
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That cold hammer-forged barrel. The WASR’s non-chrome-lined barrel can wear faster over time.
Why WASR Might Still Appeal:
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It’s cheaper. Like, a lot cheaper in many cases.
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Lighter weight—good if you’re hiking through the woods or fighting zombies.
Verdict:
If you want “just an AK,” go WASR. If you want an heirloom-grade AK you’ll pass down to your grandkids (along with your reloading bench), go ZPAP.
ZPAP M70 vs Arsenal SAM7: The Bulgarian Battle Tank
The Arsenal SAM7 is like the Rolex of AKs—precision-machined, heavy, and expensive. It uses a milled receiver, making it beefier and heavier than stamped rifles like the ZPAP.
ZPAP M70 Advantages:
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Lighter than the milled SAM7, so your shoulder won’t need therapy after range day.
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More affordable, with performance that comes shockingly close.
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That classic AK look—without needing to sell your kidney.
Arsenal’s Edge:
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Impeccable machining and silky-smooth action.
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Higher resale value (for you gun-flipping types).
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Built like a tank. Because it basically is a tank.
Verdict:
If you want the Cadillac of AKs, Arsenal delivers. But unless you’re swimming in gold bars, the ZPAP M70 gives you 90% of the performance at 60% of the price. And it comes chrome-lined, unlike many SAM7s.
ZPAP M70 vs Saiga: The Russian Collector’s Choice
The Saiga AKs, made by Izhmash in Russia, are beloved by collectors. Thanks to import bans, they’ve become harder to find—and pricier. Many Saigas also require conversion to make them look and function like traditional AKs.
Where ZPAP M70 Shines:
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Already in classic AK format—no conversion needed.
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Available and legal to import.
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Superior out-of-the-box configuration and aesthetics.
Saiga’s Standout Points:
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Russian pedigree. If you’re into that sort of thing.
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Smooth factory finish and reliable function (post-conversion).
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Collector value, if you’re a gun safe investor.
Verdict:
If you want a gun you’ll actually use and not treat like it’s wrapped in museum-grade bubble wrap, the ZPAP M70 is the better buy. If you’re building a Cold War tribute wall, Saiga’s your girl.
ZPAP M70 vs Norinco MAK-90: The Sleeper Classic
The Norinco MAK-90 has been quietly winning hearts since the ’90s. Chinese-made, solid as a rock, and often smoother than expected. But they’re long discontinued and command a steep price.
ZPAP M70 Strengths:
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Brand-new with a warranty. The MAK-90? Hope you like buying used.
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Heavier-duty construction (1.5mm receiver, bulged trunnion).
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Easier to outfit with modern optics, rails, and accessories.
Norinco’s Cool Factor:
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Legendary durability.
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Smooth triggers and tight tolerances—back when QC meant something.
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Collector cachet.
Verdict:
The MAK-90 is like a classic Mustang—awesome, but hard to maintain and even harder to replace. The ZPAP M70 is your modern-day muscle car: powerful, good-looking, and ready to run without tinkering.
Why the ZPAP M70 Might Be Your Next Favorite Rifle
By now, it should be clear: the ZPAP M70 checks a lot of boxes.
✅ Built like a tank (but better looking)
✅ Chrome-lined barrel and cold hammer-forged longevity
✅ Modern or traditional furniture—your pick
✅ No need for post-purchase mods to make it “AK-ish”
✅ Legendary Zastava quality
Whether you’re defending your homestead, ringing steel at 100 yards, or just staring lovingly at your rifle after a long day, the ZPAP M70 delivers.
Plus, let’s be real: it just feels right. The bolt carrier glides like it’s on ice. The mag clicks in like it belongs. And the thing actually hits where you aim. What more do you want—coffee delivery?
Final Verdict: Safe-Worthy?
Absolutely.
While each AK variant brings something unique to the table, the ZPAP M70 nails that sweet spot between classic AK toughness and modern reliability. Unless you’re a collector looking to hoard rare imports, this is the rifle you’ll want to shoot, clean, and repeat.
So go ahead, give your safe something to brag about.
➡️ Check out the ZPAPM70 ZR7762SRA for that traditional wood feel.
➡️ Or grab the ZPAPM70 ZR7762BHM if you prefer modern upgrades and ergonomic joy.
And while you’re at it, take a stroll through the rest of Zastava Arms USA’s offerings. You might find safer companions waiting for a home.
